International DJ & musician Johnnie Ernest speaks with SHALINI SAKSENA about his first track with an Indian music label

Why international songs first?

I was always fond of electronic music. When I used to attend music festivals, I realised I wanted to produce something on these lines and follow international producers and DJs and see how they make and release music. Likewise, I started sending my music and fortunately, I got my first opening at an international level. It was luck and my hard work paid off as well.

How did you end up making Indian music label?

I wanted to grow my name as a brand in India. I have also realised that I have to make a mark here as well. I have been fortunate once again that Zee Music Label liked my music. In India, if one wants to grow fast, it has to be Hindi lyrics.

What is the track — Falling — about?

While the track released recently, it took two year to make. I am excited that it is out. The song is about a father and a daughter — a promise by him that he would come and meet her on her birthday but he is in prison. He escapes and after many roadblocks reaches her to hand give her the gift. It is about unconditional between a father and daughter.

Why did it take such a long time to release?

I wanted to release it on an international platform. This is perhaps the toughest work that I have done thus far. At the last moment, I changed my mind and decided to release it here in India since Indians are far more emotional and would appreciate this song more. Falling is an emotional song, hence released it here.

How did you end as Johnnie from Akash?

There is an interesting story here. My nickname is Johnnie. Few people ever called me Akash. I became used to Johnnie. I wanted to a stage different name and Johnnie was born. I mixed my last name with the nickname  and ended up as Johnnie ernest.

Tell us about your musical journey?

A friend of mine took me to a club when I was in school. I used to play the drums and understood music and wanted to pursue it. I did mechanical engineering since this is what my father wanted me to do. But I finally ended up doing music which is my passion.

How did you meet Hardwell?

He is a well-known Dutch DJ. It was a dream come true to meet him at Amsterdam Music Festival. I got access to backstage; all the big name in the DJ world were there. I managed to talk to Hardwell. He told me that if I loved music, I would never to able to leave this industry. There will be challenges but stick to it and one day you reap the benefits. When I took up DJing, I never considered it as a profession; what I do makes me happy.

What does your father think of your chosen field?

He is extremely proud. He now sits at home and shows all his friends what all I have achieved till now.